LIFESTYLE AND DEMOGRAPHIC DETERMINANTS OF ASYMPTOMATIC HYPERTENSION IN A CENTRAL INDIAN POPULATION

Karuna Kachhwa, Vijay Gujar*, Ajay Meshram, Mohan Pethe, Samir Yelwatkar

Background: Hypertension is a major public health problem in India, with a substantial proportion of cases remaining asymptomatic and undiagnosed. Early identification of modifiable risk factors is essential for prevention. Objectives: To assess demographic and lifestyle determinants of asymptomatic hypertension and to estimate its prevalence in a Central Indian population. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 625 asymptomatic adults attending a tertiary care hospital in Central India (September 2020–December 2021). Data on demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), physical activity, sedentary behavior, dietary oil intake, and blood pressure were analyzed. Associations were assessed using appropriate statistical tests. Results: The prevalence of asymptomatic hypertension increased significantly with age (p<0.05). Higher BMI, physical inactivity, and sedentary behavior were significantly associated with hypertension (p<0.05). No significant association was observed with socioeconomic status or dietary oil consumption. Conclusions: Asymptomatic hypertension was strongly associated with advancing age, obesity, and adverse lifestyle factors. Population-based screening and lifestyle interventions are urgently needed.